The Perfect Nail Shape

September 6, 2013

Is there such a thing as the perfect nail shape? We know that at minimum the nails need to appear longer than they are wide, but is there a perfect length to width ratio? Well it happens that there is some science behind our concept of beauty and this has been proven to exist in many areas; in facial beauty, in bodily beauty, and even through to art and architecture. The secret lies in the Golden Ratio which is approximately 1.618 mm to 1 mm. Nails with this overall ratio will certainly appear to have a “perfect” length.

In this image, the fingernail has a Golden Ratio in the length and width of the nailbed, and a Golden Ratio between the length of the nail bed and the full length of the nail.

How to Shape Nails? – Different Ways to Shape your Nails:

There are many different ways how you can shape and style your nail. Here are some tips on styling and getting the best nail shape. Keep reading.

Almond Shaped Nails:

This style, where nails are in the shape of almonds, is very feminine and makes the fingers appear thinner and delicate. However, if you’re looking forward to growing your nails long, then don’t opt for this style as it will not let your nails grow too much.

Mountain Peak Shaped Nails:

These are nails that are shaped pointed at the top in such a way that the top part resembles the peak of a mountain. However, nails shaped in this way are definitely not feasible for day-to-day activities. So if you want to scare somebody off with your nails or just use it for basic security purpose, then this one is for grabs. Otherwise don’t dare to do it.

Square Shaped Nails:

As the name suggests, the top of the nails are shaped in the form of a square. You can even perfect them by doing a good French manicure. They are perfect for medium and long nails. They are perfect for almost any occasion. However, the sad part is that they require high maintenance.

Rounded Shaped Nails:

A gorgeous girl like you deserves to feel comfortable as much as you deserve to look glam. This is one way how you can get both. These are nails that are perfectly rounded towards the top. They are durable and simple, yet chic. They are perfect for those who use their hands a lot and don’t want their nails to get in the way. They are also perfect for those with weak nails, and for those who just like to keep it short. Add some more sparkle to your nails by giving it a lovely French manicure.

Squarely Rounded Shape Nails:

If you like the look of square-shaped nails, but want the comfort of rounded nails, this one is for you. You can shape your nails in the form of a square, by only curving the corners to give it a rounded look there. This is one way by which you can have square-shaped nails, without having to worry about them getting chipped off at the corners.

This shape is also called squoval shape. The squoval is one of the most common shapes and helps to strengthen the natural nail. The squoval nail is essentially a conservative square with the length of a square nail but the softer edges of an oval — hence the name squoval. The squoval came out of women’s demand for the square shape but without the harsh edges. Squoval nails add versatility, enabling short, wide nail beds to carry the length without appearing oversized. The term squoval was first coined in 1984 by Paula Gilmore, a prominent nail educator at the time.

How to File: To file the squoval, first begin with the square. Once the side walls are straight, tilt the file underneath the corners to gently round them off. File each corner in one direction. This will gradually take the corners off. Keep in mind that you only want to round the part of the tip that is past the free edge, this way you do not take anything away from the side walls which weakens the nails. DO NOT FILE YOUR CORNERS AWAY!!

Oval Shaped Nails:

Combine all of the above together and you will get beautiful oval-shaped nails. The cool thing about oval-shaped nails is their durability and how beautiful they look. If you have very short nails beds, you can easily fake it by trying this style. Oval-shaped nails make your nail beds appear longer.

Straight Sided Shaped Nails: This nail shape offers maximum support for the nail that is provided by the nail sides. Allow the sides to grow straight and round the tip very slightly. Even if the nail sides are damaged, it can be easily filed slightly oval. This nail shape can be easily maintained. These are the different ways to shape your nails. This is how to shape nails. Just remember, your nails are the most beautiful part of your hands. You can style them in different ways. So bring your innovative side out and ask your mind to do the thinking.

In 2013, Ovals ARE BACK!!! Longer lengths and more outrageous techniques are prevalent.

Yes, ladies; the trends continue to trickle up and down, so make sure that your fashion sense stays fierce with any of the nail shapes.

I am a trained nail artist and mother of 5 year and half year old girls...... I own my own nail art studio and do nail art professionally and teach nail art. I am nail polish addict.:) My nail polish obsession started since my childhood. I wont mind painting my nails every day. I love keeping myself updated with new nail art trends and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy working on it.